Easy Polenta

Polenta is the perfect backdrop to so many things..., roasted vegetables, simple marinara sauce, chicken dishes or just good grated Parmesan cheese.  It is a great alternative to pasta when you are looking for something different.

Easy Polenta

6 cups water

1 1/2  teaspoons salt

2 cups polenta  (I use Bob's Red Mill Polenta, but you can use yellow corn meal instead)

2 tablespoons butter (makes it really yummy, but you can omit)

In a large heavy saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Gradually stir in polenta, reduce heat and simmer gently, stirring frequently, until mixture is very thick, around 15-20 minutes. You can add a little more water if the mixture is getting too stiff. Use a long spoon because the polenta bubbles and pops up as it cooks. Stir in butter if using and pour into pie pan you have sprayed with non-stick spray. Let sit for 10 minutes and invert on pretty plate. Slice into pieces and top with parmesan cheese or any tasty topping you like. Enjoy!